Early release granted to man who threatened police

YOUNGSTOWN — A man who threatened Coitsville police last year received early judicial release this morning.

David Dunkel, 58, of West Middlesex, Pa., began his four-year prison sentence on Sept. 22 on charges of intimidation and obstructing official business.

Assistant Prosecutor Michael Yacovone said he would not object to early judicial release because Dunkel “has time hanging over his head.”

Judge John M. Durkin ordered Dunkel to serve five years probation, refrain from non-emergency contact with Coitsville and Campbell police departments, and to undergo an assessment and complete any alcohol or mental health treatment deemed necessary.

Dunkel threatened the lives of officers in both departments both in person and over the phone.

At the time of his sentencing, it was revealed that Dunkel’s son overdosed the day he made the threats. Dunkel’s attorney said Dunkel was drunk and had no memory of the events.